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      Harnessing opportunities to achieve financial resilience 

      During 2025, the KPMG and Public Sector Network Roadshow brought together representatives from local councils across Australia and experts from private industry to explore the challenges and opportunities facing the sector. Discussions explored the impact of financial constraints on the sector, as well as the opportunities to build greater financial resilience through innovative thinking and promising AI technologies. 

      Attendees responded to polling questions covering the key themes of financial sustainability, immediate and long-term challenges, and service optimisation. 

      From foundation to innovation: financial resilience in local government provides an overview of the roadshow themes and offers a three-pillar framework to help local governments address the fundamental challenge of meeting increasing demands with limited resources.

      Download the 2025 report

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      From foundation to innovation: financial resilience in local government

      PSN Local Government Roadshow 2025
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      Unlocking capabilities to uplift service experience

      PSN Local Government Roadshow
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      Key challenges for local governments in 2025

      • Financial resilience

        69% of council representatives at the 2025 roadshow nominated budget constraints and financial sustainability as their most pressing challenge – up from 61% at the 2024 roadshow.

      • AI potential

        91% of attendees see AI as a promising tool for improving operations and service delivery.

      • Service optimisation

        36% of respondents indicated that they are at the planning stage of a service transformation program, with only 9% reaching the stage of continuous improvement.

      A framework for building financial resilience

      looks_one

      Pillar 1: Back to basics

      Operational foundations are strengthened by streamlining fragmented systems, building a clear picture of assets, and uplifting skills.

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      Pillar 2: Invest purposefully

      Community-driven considerations help to maximise investment returns and build stakeholder trust.

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      Pillar 3: Adapt and innovate

      A culture of innovation requires empowered people, collaborative partnerships and a willingness to test and learn. 

      Uplifing local government with KPMG

       

      KPMG’s Cities of Value framework helps guide councils in the delivery of public value through digital innovation, physical infrastructure and a focus on sustainability.

      Our Local Government team can help you plan, develop and implement your service review program for greater uplift, value and engagement of community services while maintaining financial sustainability.

      Local Government services

      KPMG’s Local Government team

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      KPMG's Local Government team can assist in planning, developing, and implementing your service review program to enhance community services and ensure financial sustainability. Fill out the form below to discuss your specific needs.